Philanthropic Turkish Businessman Dies in South Africa

Another close friend of Erol, Ali Katırcıoğlu, who is also one of the founding members of the Samanyolu Television, mentioned that Erol came to this country only seeking God’s appreciation. “We believe that people who immigrate to other countries to do charity work, and die in those countries, will be martyrs. He is one of them. He is very lucky to be so,” he noted.

Before moving the South Africa, Erol was a tradesman in the Bağcılar district of İstanbul. He also was a former member of the İstanbul Chamber of Commerce (İTO) and was one of the founding members of the Merve Foundation, located in the Bağcılar district as well. Upon moving to Johannesburg, he started to operate a textile store and was heavily involved in charitable activities, especially in supporting Turkish schools located in South Africa.

Erol has been buried in the garden of the Nizamiye Mosque located in Johannesburg after the midday prayer. He is survived by his wife and three children. Source: Today's Zaman